As the vital first link in workplace emergency response, the occupational first aider (SST) steps in during accidents or illnesses on the job, backed by specialized training.
Over one million people receive SST training or retraining annually. These programs are crucial—a 2019 INRS-commissioned study by Cemka found nearly half of trained employees have provided aid in their workplace.
An SST is equipped to deliver immediate first aid for work accidents or medical emergencies. They also promote risk prevention, advocating for health and safety measures company-wide.
Any willing employee, whether volunteer or employer-nominated in public or private sectors, can pursue SST training—no prior qualifications needed. Regulations don't mandate a fixed ratio; INRS advises assessing needs based on workforce size, risks, and site specifics. "Determine the number case-by-case, considering staff, hazards, and operations," per INRS. The Labor Code requires at least one per hazardous workshop or qualifying construction site (20+ workers for 15+ days). Aim for coverage across all shifts and locations.
Initial 14-hour training spans two days for groups of 4-10, following INRS standards. Learn core gestures (securing safety, stopping bleeding/choking, AED use, CPR), alerting protocols (emergency services/company), hazard spotting, and prevention advocacy. Role-playing scenarios build skills, with trainer evaluation at the end.
Successful completers earn an SST certificate, valid for two years. Renew via a 7-hour refresher (MAC) to update and maintain skills.
Note: SST certification equates to PSC1 Level 1 civic first aid.
Finding Approved Training
France hosts 5,000+ INRS- and Health Insurance-approved SST providers/trainers. Find them on Inrs.fr under “Services aux entreprises.”
